Top Special Operations technology

Weapons, vehicles, body armor, drones and more of the latest exciting tech for Special Operations missions can be found in one place every year - at the Special Operations Forces Industry Conference (SOFIC). Access is carefully restricted to the special operations world and those who support it.

Elite forces

More than 12,000 attendees hailing from the Special Operations world attended the 2018 event. The event attracted attendees from the U.S. and its allies. Hosted by the National Defense Industrial Association, special operations folks and military tech innovators converged to discuss the technology needs of these elite forces for current and future threats.

Special Operations missons

More than 12,000 attendees hailing from the Special Operations world attended the 2018 event. The event attracted attendees from the U.S. and its allies. Hosted by the National Defense Industrial Association, Special Operations folks and military tech innovators converged to discuss the technology needs of these elite forces for current and future threats.

Top weaponry

Weapons, of course, are widely featured. Giant companies, as well as smaller bespoke teams, brought their latest models particularly in rifles. Seen here is Geissele’s Joy that drew a lot of buzz with its outstanding craftsmanship.

Handguns

All the biggies in the firearm industry were at the event with an array of handgun options as well, such as Sig Sauer, which last year won the $580 million Army MHS contract. Seen here are M17 pistols.

Accessories

There was no shortage of the latest accessories to review. Many did not just perform exceedingly well, but also featured mission-practical external designs that also looked amazing. Seen here is an option from Leupold.

Binoculars

From binoculars and monoculars through to weapon sights, scopes, night vision goggles, thermal imagers and more…the latest ways to enhance how warfighters see were on display. (Steiner Optics in this photo.)

Body Armor

SOFIC window shoppers had the chance to look at different advanced body armor to enhance protection for operators. Crye Precision, featured in this photo, showcased their new generation of apparel and was one of the most popular booths again this year.

Combat Apparel

New combat apparel, including options with advanced material to protect against CBRN, and new enhanced protection helmets are just a few of the “apparel” options showcased. Seen here are some new advances for threats like chemical and biological warfare by Gore Military.

Drones

Reflecting escalating demand, SOFIC 2018 also featured a huge range of drones in all sorts of sizes, for all sorts of purposes. Smaller scale drones are particularly hot, ranging from the size of a finger to the size of a board game.

Vehicles

SOFIC 2018 was also heaving with vehicles. From cars that look like regular cars, but are secretly fortified with advanced bullet proof armor, through to heavily armored vehicles and combat pimped-out Polaris Defense MRZRs